Joanna Gaines' Brown Butter Roasted Potatoes: A Thanksgiving Must-Have
Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season, a time for family gatherings, cherished customs, and the cozy warmth of cooler weather. For many, this also means extensive cooking, and deciding on the perfect menu can be a challenge. When planning a feast, whether for a large crowd or a smaller Friendsgiving, potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
A standout option is Joanna Gaines' Brown Butter Roasted Potatoes. This recipe, highlighted in the Fall 2025 issue of Magnolia Journal, transforms a classic side into an elegant dish. It's notably quick, requiring just 30 minutes, and uses only four primary ingredients, alongside common pantry items like olive oil, salt, and pepper. The secret to its rich, deep flavor lies in the brown butter. To prepare, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with foil. Cut two pounds of unpeeled russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with one tablespoon of olive oil, a half-teaspoon of salt, and a quarter-teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them on the baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender and browned, flipping once for even cooking.
While the potatoes roast, prepare the brown butter. Gaines suggests melting a quarter-cup of room-temperature butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, stirring for about five minutes until the foam subsides and the milk solids turn bronze, indicating a nutty aroma. Once browned, remove from heat and stir in one tablespoon of freshly chopped rosemary. Transfer the roasted potatoes to a serving bowl, toss with the aromatic brown butter, and garnish with additional fresh rosemary and flaky sea salt. This dish is not just a side; it's a star in its own right, and its simplicity allows for easy meal preparation, even serving as a delicious base for other dishes.
This dish elevates the humble potato to a holiday highlight, promising to be a memorable addition to any festive table. Its balance of comfort and sophistication makes it an ideal choice for celebrating with loved ones, embodying the spirit of warmth and culinary delight that defines the holiday season.
